Whether you’re looking for a Starkey hearing aids alternative because you don’t want to go the complicated, expensive prescription route OR because you’ve already tried them and they don’t work for you, you’ve come to the right place.

Starkey makes some great prescription-grade hearing aids, there’s no doubt about that. But they’re not perfect for everyone, especially people with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. These devices are really expensive relative to what many mild-to-moderate users need day to day. Starkey hearing aids can be more feature-rich than many options, but some people don’t end up using those features—and the price can feel hard to justify for mild-to-moderate loss.

We’ll help you weigh your options for Starkey hearing aids alternatives below, including:

  • Audien Hearing Aids
  • Signia Hearing Aids
  • Phonak Hearing Aids
  • Lexie Hearing Aids
  • Oticon Hearing Aids
  • Jabra Hearing Aids
  • Eargo Hearing Aids
  • Widex Hearing Aids
  • Rexton Hearing Aids
  • Sony Hearing Aids

These are the top ten options on the market right now - a mix of prescription-grade devices and even some of the best OTC hearing aids. Audien Hearing is a leading choice if you’re dealing with mild-to-moderate hearing loss but still want top-tier performance and usability at a fair price.

We have the best hearing aid under $100 and even our most sophisticated devices with multiple hearing modes, Bluetooth streaming, touchscreen capability, and 48+ hours of battery life are a fraction of what you’d pay for a Starkey hearing aid. 

Learn more about why we’re the trusted Starkey Hearing Aids Alternative for mild-to-moderate hearing loss today. Or, connect with our customer care team for one-on-one support today!

“I’ve only had my aids a week but I’m very happy with them!” - Wanda

“The customer service goes above and beyond to assist.” - John

“These hearing aids work great and the insurance plan is very affordable. The Atom 2 is the best and with all the features it comes with.” - Ricky

Are Starkey Hearing Aids One of the Best Options on the Market?

Starkey is a well-known prescription hearing aid brand dispensed at audiology clinics across the country. They’re a popular choice for complex hearing loss cases because of their advanced sound processing, fit options, and clinic-guided tuning.

But as you may have already come to find out, the Starkey experience doesn’t always match the price for the average person dealing with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. 

Popular Starkey Hearing Aids

There are a few Starkey hearing aid lines you’ll have access to through your audiologist, ranging from receiver-in-canal (RIC) to in-the-ear (ITE), behind-the-ear (BTE), invisible (IIC), and completely-in-canal (CIC). Here are the most popular:

  • Omega AI: Uses deep-learning processors to adapt to background noise and pull voices forward. Rechargeable, durable RIC and BTE styles with strong environmental filtering.
  • Genesis AI: Built around “Neuro Sound Technology” in both RIC and custom ITE. Offers Bluetooth streaming, hands-free calling, and automatic environmental adjustments.
  • Edge AI: Real-time adaptive sound management, long battery life, and a wide range of styles. Includes connected features and dynamic noise handling.
  • Signature Series: Discreet, custom-molded devices. These are small, low-profile aids with simpler controls for users who value appearance more than advanced connectivity.

You can easily find the ideal fit for your level of hearing loss and lifestyle. Across the board, though, these are prescription-grade hearing aid devices. That’s why they’re not for everyone.

Why Might You Want an Alternative to Starkey Hearing Aids?

Starkey hearing aids can feel like more device (and more expense) than you actually need for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. These models cost several thousand dollars per pair once you factor in clinic visits, fittings, and follow-ups.

Even accessing them can be a bit of a headache. You’ll have to find an audiologist near you, schedule an initial appointment, go through hearing tests, and then get fitted for a device - with ongoing adjustments to tailor performance to your exact needs. That can be a good thing if you have a uniquely complex case of hearing loss. But again, that’s not what most people deal with.

We’ve seen a lot of Starkey hearing aid reviews mention how the features the user really cares about - clearer conversation in everyday environments, dependable battery life, comfortable wear - don’t exactly line up with the premium price tag.

Plus, the Starkey learning curve can feel longer than you’d like if you just want a simple way to hear things better. That’s why we’re going to introduce you to the best Starkey hearing aids alternative below. 

What’s the Best Starkey Hearing Aids Alternative?

You can easily find dependable hearing help without clinic pricing or complicated appointments. There are some really great OTC options on the market. There are also better prescription-grade devices worth exploring. 

But let’s start with the #1 Starkey hearing aids alternative for people struggling with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Look no further than the hearing aids for sale at Audien Hearing.

Audien Hearing Aids

We believe everyone should be able to hear the sounds that matter most without the expenses and frustrations of prescription hearing aids. That’s why we’ve developed a range of devices starting at just $98. Even our most advanced device is only $689.

Every model ships ready to use, fits comfortably, and keeps daily hearing care simple. Here’s a look at the best inexpensive hearing aids at Audien Hearing:

  • Atom ONE ($98): Entry-level in-ear device with straightforward volume control and a compact design for first-time users. 24 hours of battery life.
  • Atom X ($289): Touchscreen charging case, Bluetooth streaming, 4 listening modes, and 48+ hour battery life. You get modern features with a short learning curve.
  • ION Pro 2 ($689): App-based controls, directional microphones, 6 customizable modes, and a stronger speech-forward sound profile. A premium OTC option. You’ll enjoy more tuning control without needing audiologist support or a prescription.

All our hearing aids can be set up in just minutes, but you gain access to lifetime support from our team if you run into any bumps in the road. Your order is backed by our 45-day trial period and a 1-year warranty for peace of mind.

More than a million people have come to Audien Hearing for help hearing better, and the results speak for themselves. 93% heard better in group conversations, and 89% recommended Audien to friends and family struggling with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. 

Whether you’re looking for the best hearing aids under $200 or a touchscreen hearing aid, you’ll find it here in our lineup - shop now or get in touch for personalized guidance! 

Signia Hearing Aids

One of the biggest names you’ll see pop up as a Starkey hearing aids alternative - at least from a prescription viewpoint - is Signia. These devices provide strong background-noise handling and come in a wide range of wearable styles, both RIC and custom in-ear options.

The flexibility can be helpful for people with more complex hearing patterns, but pricing and clinic visits add up quickly for mild-to-moderate loss and may not make sense. Here are some of the popular devices:

  • Pure Charge&Go IX: RIC style with rechargeable batteries, advanced noise handling, and Bluetooth streaming. Runs well over $3,000 per pair through clinics.
  • Silk Charge&Go IX: Custom-fit CIC design that stays nearly hidden. Rechargeable with Bluetooth support. Built for comfort and discretion.
  • Styletto AX: Slim design with strong speech-in-noise performance and fast charging. A lifestyle-forward take on the RIC form factor.

You’ll learn a lot more about Signia vs Starkey hearing aids in our blog, as these two prescription-grade brands are among your best options for really complex, unique cases of hearing loss.

But for mild-to-moderate hearing loss? Both of these manufacturers are more performance than it’s worth paying for. That’s not to mention how inconvenient ongoing clinic adjustments can be. 

Phonak Hearing Aids

Phonak might have the most extensive hearing aid catalog in the industry, with devices ranging from ITE to BTE. The brand has made it a point to offer something for everyone, whether you’re dealing with mild-to-moderate hearing loss to severe or profound hearing loss.

  • Audéo Lumity: RIC device with top-tier speech clarity in noise, hands-free calling, and rechargeable options. A premium model available through audiology clinics.
  • Slim: A slimmer RIC design that sits neatly behind the ear without the bulk of traditional models. Perfect for those who want something super discreet that still does its job.
  • Virto Paradise: Custom ITE styles with reliable streaming and enhanced low-frequency clarity. This comes at a cost, of course. Expensive and complicated.

Phonak hearing aids are durable and perform really well in noisy spaces. They also bring strong Bluetooth capabilities across both iPhone and Android for ease of use out in the real world. But the cost and fitting process often put them out of the question for everyday people. Expect to pay as much as $4,000 to $7,000 per pair, all in.

Lexie Hearing Aids

Audien Hearing isn’t the only Starkey hearing aids alternative for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Lexie sits somewhere between traditional prescription brands and budget OTC devices, and these are a very popular choice as well. There are two main devices available:

  • B2 Powered by Bose: RIC design with rechargeability, directional microphones, and a robust app that adjusts treble, bass, and gain. Around $999 per pair.
  • Lumen: Battery-powered, multiple environment presets, and a more affordable entry point for new users.

A lot of Lexie’s hearing aids are powered by Bose sound processing for incredible clarity. You also get an app with more fine-tuning than most OTC products offer. They’re a reasonable choice if you like technology and don’t mind learning how to dial in settings yourself.

You get solid value in Lexie hearing aids, but not everyone wants an app-heavy system. Many mild-to-moderate users prefer a simpler in-ear design without the learning curve, especially if they mainly need help with voices and TV.

Oticon Hearing Aids

Oticon takes a “sound access” approach to addressing hearing loss. The devices let in more environmental audio instead of filtering it aggressively. People who want a fuller, more natural soundscape tend to like it. But it comes at a cost - these are not affordable OTC devices.

Still, Oticon powers its devices through really advanced technology. The price tag can make sense if you have complex hearing loss. Here are three of the most popular devices:

  • Real: Handles wind and sudden noises well. A solid choice if you’re active and spend a lot of time outdoors or in shifting environments.
  • Own: Custom in-ear styles with the same Real processing. Better for people who want a discreet fit, but still just as expensive as you’d expect a prescription device to be.
  • Zircon: More affordable RIC option, though still tied to full clinic fitting and service structure. You miss out on some of the performance of other Oticon devices.

We have a separate comparison of Oticon vs Signia if you want to weigh these two popular choices side-by-side and narrow it down to the ideal Starkey hearing aids alternative. 

Jabra Hearing Aids

Jabra is a unique Starkey hearing aids alternative in the sense that you gain access to prescription-grade devices or OTC models. This is a good pick if you want strong connectivity and an easy setup process. Popular models from the Jabra Enhance line include:

  • Enhance Select 50R: Rechargeable RIE with Bluetooth streaming and basic noise control. They’re OTC, but still cost over $1,000!
  • Enhance Select 700: Upgraded sound processing and environment adaptation. Around $1,700-$1,900 per pair.
  • Enhance Pro 20 / Pro 30: Prescription-level RIE devices sold through retailers, with stronger amplification and AI-based processing.

These devices are feature-rich. You get Bluetooth streaming, app control, and rechargeable batteries. People say they feel more like consumer tech than traditional hearing aids. Learn more about Signia vs Jabra hearing aids in our blog if you’d like. 

Just know that as far as OTC devices go, these miss the mark. They’re available to purchase directly, which is great - but you’re not exactly getting the savings you might want with devices starting at $1,195!

Eargo Hearing Aids

Looking for a Starkey hearing aids alternative that’s virtually invisible? Eargo might be an option worth exploring. These rechargeable ITE devices are a strong candidate for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss who want something super discreet. Models include:

  • Link: Earbud-style OTC device with Bluetooth streaming; roughly $799 per pair.
  • SE: Rechargeable CIC style with four presets; around $1,650-$1,700.
  • 8: Premium CIC device with adaptive sound; about $2,699 per pair.

These stylish hearing aids balance comfort and appearance pretty well, and they’re self-fit too. No need to deal with complicated (or expensive) clinic visits. But a lot of people find that ITE designs don’t actually fit their hearing needs, which rules out Eargo.

Our main issue, though, is value for the money. The entry-level Eargo device is still more expensive than our most sophisticated model at Audien Hearing! 

Widex Hearing Aids

Widex’s “cleaner” sound profile appeals to people who are sensitive to how digital processing can alter tone. Their RIC and BTE devices handle music well and tend to perform consistently in mixed environments.

Most Widex models are prescription-only, which means clinic visits, fittings, and higher pricing. Here’s a look at the lineup:

  • SmartRIC: Rechargeable RIC with up to 37 hours of battery life and strong speech clarity.
  • Moment: Available in RIC, BTE, and custom versions with natural-sound processing.
  • Allure: High-end clinic model with tinnitus support and advanced sound shaping.

The obvious limitation for anyone with mild-to-moderate hearing loss is cost. These devices easily cost north of $3,000-$5,000 per pair once fitted, which is more than these types of people need for everyday listening.

Rexton Hearing Aids

If you’re interested in exploring hearing support through your local Costco hearing center, you might be drawn to Rexton hearing aids. These devices are dispensed there along with many audiologist clinics across the country.

Rexton hearing aids give you access to prescription-level features at slightly lower prices than some competitors. They offer rechargeable BTE and RIC options with dependable durability and solid speech handling in noisy spaces. Devices include:

  • BiCore RIC: Rechargeable device with stable Bluetooth streaming and dual-processor sound handling.
  • MotionCore BTE: Strong amplification range for broader hearing loss needs. You get good reliability and wind handling at a lower cost.
  • Reach Series: Newer line with better directionality and clearer speech pickup.

But despite being more affordable than some prescription brands, you’ll still have to navigate clinic appointments for fitting and adjustment. That’s just more work than it’s worth for mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

Sony Hearing Aids

Last but not least on our list of Starkey hearing aids alternatives, we have Sony - yes, they make hearing aids along with all the other tech they’re known for!

Sony’s OTC lineup combines hearing support with a consumer-electronics style design, which is a perfect match for people with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. You can choose from discreet CIC models and an earbud-style device with Bluetooth streaming. Models include:

  • CRE-C20: Rechargeable CIC device with up to 28 hours of use per charge for $999/pair.
  • CRE-E10: Earbud-style OTC aid with iOS Bluetooth streaming. 26 hours per charge.
  • CRE-C10: Budget CIC option using disposable batteries. Around $699/pair.

Setup happens through a self-fitting app, so this is an easy-start option with no need for a clinic visit. That’s fine for people who feel comfortable with technology, but the learning curve can be a bit steep for some users. The form factor isn’t ideal for everyone, either. 

 

Note: if you suspect severe loss, sudden changes, or unilateral symptoms, an audiology evaluation is recommended.

Final Thoughts on Starkey Hearing Aids Alternatives

Starkey hearing aids have their place, but the key takeaway is that hearing loss is not one-size-fits-all. No brand - not even Audien Hearing - is right for EVERYONE across the board. 

That being said, you’ll start to notice that most prescription models are built for more complex hearing loss than what most people actually have as you begin comparing Starkey hearing aids alternatives.

Simple, reliable amplification with features you’ll use every day delivers the most value if you just have mild-to-moderate hearing loss. That’s where Audien Hearing makes sense. Explore our lineup or reach out now to find out if our devices are right for you!